California Post’s NBA Awards predictions: Luka or Wemby? Spurs or Lakers?

October 18, 2026

The NBA’s 2026–27 season kicks off with a roster of high-profile storylines, starting with the Lakers’ bold pivot under Luka Dončić. After LeBron James departed for the 76ers, Dončić took over as the franchise’s leader, leveraging his offseason influence to shape the team—including pushing for the acquisition of center Walker Kessler and hosting a minicamp in Slovenia to solidify chemistry.

The Slovenian star, who led the league in scoring (33.5 PPG) and ranked third in assists (8.3 APG) last season, now carries the weight of Lakers expectations, aiming to silence MVP critics who placed him fourth in the 2025–26 race despite his dominant stats. Meanwhile, the Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama remains an unstoppable defensive force, with his 7-foot-4 frame and 8-foot wingspan dominating opponents in ways no other rookie has matched.

His defensive prowess alone makes him the clear favorite for Defensive Player of the Year, provided he meets the 65-game threshold. Beyond the superstars, the Knicks enter as title favorites after ending a 53-year drought, while rookie Cameron Boozer of the Grizzlies could emerge as the league’s top newcomer, given his summer league and preseason performances.

Ajay Mitchell, the Lakers’ undrafted gem, also looms large after his playoff breakout—averaging 22.5 points in a sweep of Los Angeles—and could challenge for Sixth Man of the Year if he continues his ascent. With so much talent reshuffled, the stage is set for another unpredictable campaign, but one thing is certain: Dončić and Wembanyama will anchor the awards conversation from night one.